I appreciate all of the advise and opinions. I am not really new to muzzleloaders and have owned a few rifles and revolvers for the last thirty years. I no longer hunt deer but I have kept one .45 rifle in case I decide down the road that I might like to again. In the past couple of weeks two percussion rifles and two cap and ball revolvers have been sold, leaving me only with the shotgun and one rifle. When my father passed away a few months ago I decided I was either going to use or sell his shotgun. I know it won't be as productive as what I am now shooting but it will be interesting, or frustrating.
For shot and powder measuring I have both a one ounce ladle (as marked) and a brass cylindrical one that adjusts from 1-1 1/4 ounces. I also have plenty of hard filler wads and overshot cards. I don't know that I even care to shoot that large of a charge. Is there a minimum that is safe or recommended? My ideal would be to shoot 7/8 ounce charges. What about using a one piece plastic wad? I don't see any mention of choking in the manual and was wondering if there was any. I am a walk-up shooter and don't hunt over a dog. Because of that many of my shot are long and difficult with a breechloader. Having to cock hammers will only make me slower and the shot distance longer. I thought a plastic wad would help tighten patterns as much as possible. I know that flies in the face of the traditional aspect I am looking for but I also need to be concerned about efficiency. If I could get away with just an overpowder wad I would do that but I'd like to have the option of the modern wad if patterns are poor.
Woodsrunner, I would be interested in seeing what period correct accessories look like. Please email me at skip@thesnipehunter.com.
Skip
